Shoppers may be rushing home with their treasures, but there’s really no need. To avoid the crowds and corporate chain stores get back to the simplicity and charm of a local shopping trip. Light up the holidays with great shopping opportunities that support artists and local businesses.

Several Arts and Craft shows are taking place in the area including the Christmas Arts and Crafts Extravaganza Nov. 21 and 22. This is the perfect place to get everything on your list. Every product is unique and handmade - pottery, baked goods, books, decorations, to name a few. And all the money goes to local artists and small businesses. The Christmas Arts and Crafts Extravaganza is so big that it is being held in both the Show Me Center and the Osage Center. With all those vendors it will be impossible not to find what you need. Vendors will provide everything from dog apparel to homemade food seasoning.

Also taking place Nov. 21 and 22 is the River Valley Craft Club Christmas Expo in the Arena Building. Almost 200 vendors will be present selling crafts, decorations, and more. Santa Claus can usually be found checking out what these local elves are up to.

Yet a third craft fair takes place that weekend. The Craft, Gift, and Collectables Show will be held at Notre Dame High School in Cape starting Nov. 20. For only $1 patrons can shop inside, with proceeds going to Notre Dame Performing and Visual Arts Program, Soldier Packages, Toys for Tots, Toy Box, and Christmas for the Elderly.

Nov. 20 and 21 you can shop and get something sweet in Downtown Poplar Bluff where they are having a Holiday Cookie Tour. Visit participating businesses while you shop and get free cookies, plus the recipe.

Over in Illinois the Carterville Holiday Market will be held in the community Center Nov. 17 with over 50 local and small businesses present to help get that Christmas list done early. Don’t worry about the children, there will be a Free Kidz Zone to keep the little ones entertained, along with giveaways and free gift bags.

In Carbondale SIU will be hosting the annual Holiday Craft Sale with around 75 students, faculty, and staff selling handmade wares Dec. 3, 4, and 5 in the Student Center Art Gallery.

Don’t forget about Small Business Saturday Nov. 28. Downtown Cape will be having a stamp card event. Pick up a Downtown Passport at any participating retailer and earn stamps from purchases at their locations. Each stamp equates to one entry into our grand prize giveaway of a Downtown Cape gift basket filled with downtown gift cards and merchandise. Towns like Perryville, Jackson, and Carbondale will also be participating in Small Business Saturday with sales, giveaways, and special offers. Even local restaurants will provide specials to keep you fed while you shop.

This holiday season support the small businesses that make small towns great. Visit our Seasonal Calendar for more shopping specials and events.